The government says shale gas fracking (hydraulic fracturing) has the potential to support greater energy security, economic growth and jobs as part of the UK’s transition to a lower carbon economy. It contends that a strong regulation regime will ensure on-site safety, prevent environmental contamination, mitigate seismic activity and minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

Following widespread parliamentary and public interest in fracking we intend to produce a report which will set out the facts surrounding:

government’s policy objectives, key events to date and what activity has occurred and is planned;

the roles and responsibilities across government;

the regulatory regime; and

the potential costs and liabilities to government, including decommissioning costs.

If you would like to provide evidence for our study, please email the study team on enquiries@nao.org.uk putting the study title (Fracking) in the subject line. The team will consider the evidence you provide; however, please note that due to the volume of information we receive we may not respond to you directly.

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